2015 / Fine Art / Other

Havana Cabs

  • Photographer
    Thomas Meinicke

For a lot of people they are a status symbol and main source of revenue: „The Havana cabs“. US-American antique cars are spread all over Cuba. Since the first half of the 20th century, they are a relic of the American influence. They already have become a cultural asset of Cuba. Most of the cars are still working, for more than 55 years. Many people use them as taxis to earn money. The huge variety of the cars is impressive. Over the years, the once capitalistic vehicles got a very individual restoration. They are full of different reconstructions, styles and colours. Some look quite new, some just rundown. Every of them is unique. It is a fascinating combination of the old design and the temporary look. The cars are witnesses of a past time, which is still alive in the socialistic country, a specific cuban way of life.